Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical Services for Columbus, OH

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my AC running but not cooling my house?

Several things can cause this, including low refrigerant levels, a dirty or frozen evaporator coil, a failing compressor, or a malfunctioning thermostat. A dirty air filter can also restrict airflow enough to reduce cooling performance. Our technicians will diagnose the specific cause and explain your options before starting any work.

How long does AC installation take?

Most central air conditioning installations are completed in one day. If your home needs new ductwork, electrical upgrades, or other modifications, the project may extend to two days. We will provide a detailed timeline during your in-home estimate.

What are the signs my furnace needs repair?

Common warning signs include unusual noises like banging or squealing, uneven heating throughout your home, frequent cycling on and off, a sudden increase in energy bills, and yellow or flickering pilot light. If your furnace is blowing cold air or failing to start, contact a professional right away.

How long does furnace installation take?

A standard furnace installation typically takes one day. More complex installations involving ductwork modifications or switching fuel types may take longer. Our team will give you a clear timeline before work begins.

What are the signs my home needs an electrical panel upgrade?

Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, a burning smell near your panel, or warm and discolored outlets are all warning signs. Homes with Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or Challenger panels should be evaluated regardless of symptoms — these brands have known safety issues. If your home is 40+ years old or still has a fuse box, an upgrade to 200-amp service is worth discussing.

What electrical services do you offer?

Fire & Ice provides a full range of residential electrical services including panel upgrades, circuit installation, outlet and switch replacement, ceiling fan installation, whole-home surge protection, lighting upgrades, and electrical safety inspections. We handle both routine work and more complex projects like EV charger installation and generator hookups.

What should I do when a clogged drain will not clear?

If a plunger or basic drain snake does not resolve it, stop using chemical drain cleaners — repeated use can damage pipes. A clog that will not clear or keeps returning often signals a deeper issue: main line blockage, tree root intrusion, or pipe damage. A professional camera inspection can identify the exact cause and location so the fix targets the actual problem, not just the symptom.

What plumbing services do you offer?

Fire & Ice provides residential plumbing services including leak detection and repair, drain cleaning, faucet and fixture installation, toilet repair and replacement, water line repair, sump pump service, and water heater installation. We handle both emergency repairs and planned upgrades.

What size Generac generator do I need for my home?

It depends on what you want to power during an outage. A 10-14kW unit handles essentials like lights, refrigerator, sump pump, and furnace. A 20-22kW unit can power most of a typical home including central air. The key is accounting for startup surge — appliances like AC compressors and sump pumps draw significantly more power when they kick on. We size every installation based on your electrical panel and priorities.

What size generator do I need for my home?

Generator sizing depends on what you want to power during an outage. A portable generator can handle essentials like a refrigerator and a few lights, while a whole-home standby generator can power your entire house including HVAC. Our team will calculate your electrical load and recommend the right size so you are not overpaying for capacity you do not need.